Wall Mounted Shelving and Storage
There are different types of wall mounted shelving and storage. The way in which you hang your shelves will depend mostly on what kind of walls you have.
On a wood framed wall, the mounting screws go through the wall finish and into studs. To install individual shelf brackets on a wood framed wall, locate studs inside the wall. Studs are usually 16 inches apart. Once you find the first one it’s easier to find the rest. A good stud finder makes job easier. Mark the wall where the studs are located and, using a level, draw a line across the wall where you want the shelf. Put the brackets where the stud lines intersect with the level line. It will be easier to drive the screws for the brackets if you drill pilot holes first. Place the brackets against the wall and drill small holes through the screw holes in the bracket. Then just drive the screws through the brackets and into the pilot holes.
If your walls are Masonry you’ll need to attach shelving with expansion anchors. Use 2 inch screws unless your shelves will be bearing a very heavy load. With masonry walls you again draw a level line where you want the shelf. You can install the bracket anywhere along the masonery wall because you don’t have to worry with studs. Mark the bracket mounting holes, drill holes large enough for the anchor to slide in, place the anchors in the wall, hold the bracket on to the wall and drive the screws into the anchors. All that’s left is to size your shelves and attach them to the brackets.
These same methods apply to securing cabinets to walls, whether they are "floating" or you simply want to stabilize a free-standing unit. Whatever your method, here are some ideas to help with your wall mounted shelving and storage project.
